CVE-2018-10168 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2018-10168 article provides insights into a vulnerability in TP-Link EAP Controller and Omada Controller versions 2.5.4_Windows/2.6.0_Windows that allows low-privilege users to perform actions as an Administrator.

Understanding CVE-2018-10168

This CVE was published on May 3, 2018, by MITRE.

What is CVE-2018-10168?

The vulnerability in TP-Link EAP Controller and Omada Controller versions 2.5.4_Windows/2.6.0_Windows enables users with low privileges to execute requests as an Administrator due to inadequate control over Web API privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2018-10168

The lack of privilege control in the affected versions allows unauthorized users to escalate their permissions and potentially perform malicious actions on the system. However, this issue has been addressed in version 2.6.1_Windows.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-10168

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the inability of TP-Link EAP Controller and Omada Controller versions 2.5.4_Windows/2.6.0_Windows to properly manage privileges for utilizing the Web API, leading to unauthorized privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: TP-Link EAP Controller and Omada Controller
Versions: 2.5.4_Windows, 2.6.0_Windows
Status: Affected

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users with low privileges can exploit this vulnerability to perform actions as an Administrator, potentially compromising the system's security.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-10168 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to version 2.6.1_Windows to mitigate the vulnerability.
Restrict access to the affected controllers to trusted users only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit user privileges and activities on the controllers.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by TP-Link to ensure the security of the EAP and Omada Controllers.